Washington Narrows Israel’s Window to Strike Iran: Tensions Rise Between Trump and Netanyahu

NBC News has reported, citing U.S. officials and diplomats, that tensions have escalated in recent weeks between U.S. President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu due to disagreements over Gaza and Iran.

According to sources, public statements by President Trump upset Netanyahu twice last week, particularly when Trump expressed that he had not made a final decision on whether to allow Iran to enrich uranium—remarks that frustrated the Israeli leader.

The reports also noted that Israeli Minister Ron Dermer conveyed Netanyahu’s displeasure to U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff during a meeting at the White House on Thursday.

American sources revealed that Trump was frustrated with Israel’s decision to launch a new offensive in the Gaza Strip, viewing the operation as conflicting with his reconstruction plans. Trump reportedly described the attack as a “wasted effort” that would complicate efforts to rebuild the region.

NBC further reported that Washington is pressuring both Israel and Hamas to agree to a ceasefire in Gaza.

Regarding the Iranian file, sources said Netanyahu had been frustrated for weeks by Trump’s refusal to support military strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities. Netanyahu is seeking an agreement to prevent Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon—an issue of great concern to Israeli officials.

Officials pointed out that the Israelis fear any agreement that would allow Tehran to retain its uranium enrichment capabilities. Meanwhile, diplomatic sources confirmed that Washington is working with Israel to secure the release of remaining hostages in Gaza and to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons, as part of broader U.S. efforts to strengthen Middle East security.

Some reports also noted that Netanyahu was caught off guard when Trump announced his willingness to engage in direct talks with Tehran, amid Israeli concerns that Washington’s negotiations could continue while the window for striking Iranian nuclear facilities narrows.